Drug interactions
Metformin + Phenelzine
Severity: Minor
Metformin and Phenelzine: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
MAO inhibitors can lower blood glucose and enhance the glucose-lowering action of antidiabetic drugs. When phenelzine is added to metformin, glycemic control may shift and hypoglycemia is possible, although metformin alone carries a low hypoglycemia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metformin and Phenelzine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Metformin belongs to Endocrine; Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
MAO inhibitors may improve insulin sensitivity and alter glucose homeostasis, producing an additive glucose-lowering effect; the exact mechanism is not well established.
What to do
Check blood glucose more often when phenelzine is started, changed or stopped. Adjust the antidiabetic regimen if readings fall.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Metformin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metformin with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Metformin and Phenelzine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. MAO inhibitors can lower blood glucose and enhance the glucose-lowering action of antidiabetic drugs. When phenelzine is added to metformin, glycemic control may shift and hypoglycemia is possible, although metformin alone carries a low hypoglycemia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Metformin and Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Check blood glucose more often when phenelzine is started, changed or stopped. Adjust the antidiabetic regimen if readings fall.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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